Aircraft History
Built by Mitsubishi. Delivered to the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN). Assigned to an unknown Kokutai. No known markings.

Wartime History
This Zero operated from Babo Airfield. While parked in a revetment, this aircraft was damaged by a nearby bomb blast that broke and twisted its tail upside down. In front of this Zero, a Nissan Hucks Starter vehicle was abandoned.

Wreckage
Until at least 1991, this Zero remained at Babo Airfield in situ. This Zero was easily identifiable due to the distinctive twisted tail. Whereabouts today unknown.

Bruce Fenstermaker adds:
"I did not salvage this Zero in 1991. My plan was to leave this wreck as one of those on display for tourists visiting the airfield."

References
Pacific Aircraft Wrecks page 15 (lower)
Aeroplane Monthly "A Shadow of the Rising Sun" by John Hooper January 1974
Thanks to Jim Long for additional information

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Last Updated
November 9, 2019